I would ask a Lincoln dealer, but I must concur with the others that they are most likely clear coated.
And, yes, Meg`s Ultimate Wheel Cleaner is OK to use on them to clean them.
As far as detaiing equipment to clean them with, I find the that the E-Z Detail Mini-Brush (stressing Mini!) is a good brush to use. It`s smaller size and shorter bristles fit between the rim spokes and do not splash/throw back wheel cleaner like its larger brother.
Many like Wheel Woolies better and they make them in three (3) different sizes, so you can pick one that , again, fits your wheel spokes.
I also see that Detail Factory makes a "brush" with a removable microfiber cover/sleeve that might appeal to you.
I would also recommend a wheel cleaning pad. I found one made by Hopkins Manufacturing Corp., Carson CA called the Auto Spa Microfiber Max Tight Spot Mitt. It`s triangular in shape, has finger pockets in it and one side is a noodle microfiber while the other side is a textured bug-like mesh. Works REALLY well for getting behind rim spokes that the E-Z mini brush does not reach or scrubbing with the textured side to remove stubborn baked-on brake dust on neglected rims. I doubt that you have that problem on your Lincoln MKC, unless the previous owner never cleaned them and was heavy braker , like in hilly/mountainous areas or a lead-footed driver/street racer.
As others have suggested, wax/seal/coat them on a yearly basis at least, OR more often if you drive alot of miles or brake a lot in stop-and-go traffic or live in hilly/mountainous areas where you need to use your brakes often. Yes, there are wheel/rim-specific waxes and coatings, but even the same wax/sealant/coating (commonly referred to here in this Autopia forum as a LSP, or Last-Step Product) that you prefer for your paint can be used on your rims. Something is better than nothing. One other piece pf advice is if you are not so inclined to remove the wheel and tire from the spindle to apply your LSP, you may need to get down on the ground and reach behind the tire to get to the backside of the rim to apply and wipe off the LSP. Also you may need to roll the MKC ahead to get to the area covered up by the disk brake caliper that is just too tight to reach between the rim surface and the caliper. And watch out for the Tire-Pressure Sensor (TPS, which I assume is standard equipment on your MKC) that you do not bump it too hard and knock it off its mounting position on the rim surface. Yes, it`s a lot of work and body contortion and hand reaching, but it is one of those detailing tasks that Obsessive-Compulsive Detailers (referred to as OCDer`s) do to their own vehicles. You`ve probably seen a lot of vehicles on the road with neglected wheels/rims that look dirty or the paint/clear coat is starting to peel off the rim material or looks corroded. Cleaning and protecting rims on a regular basis can really enhance the appearance and value of your MKC, especially if you plan on keeping and driving it for a while.
By the way, the Lincoln MKC is a very nice luxury SUV, especially being the Reserve model! How did you come to choose buying this particular vehicle??
(Yes, my reputation as "Captain Obvious" is that I ask a lot of questions.)
